Divide up into groups of 5-8. The leader is the one who can
do the best John Wayne (or any cowboy) imitation. The leader will see that the
group follows the lesson as outlined assuring that everyone has an opportunity
to share, and that no one dominates the discussion.

Building Community

Going around the group, give each person an opportunity to
respond to this statement. Share why you chose that answer.

If I lived in the old west, you would most likely find me
hanging around the. . .

Bank

Blacksmith's Shop

Cemetery

Church

Home Fire

School House

Saloon

Sheriff's Office

Stables

Looking at God's Word

1. WANTED DEAD
Read Romans 6:1-2.
A "wanted" poster indicates that the town sheriff is looking for
someone because a law has been violated.
Based on this passage, we are not "WANTED: DEAD" even though we
deserve death because of our violation of God's law. What is
"WANTED:DEAD?"
For personal reflection:What actions,
thoughts, words or activities that you are involved in would be on your
"wanted" poster? Take a minute to list those things on your wanted
poster.

2. How does that sin, which is
"WANTED:DEAD," die?

3. To take this cowboy theme a step
further, let's say Jesus is the sheriff. He is a sheriff that guides and
protects. In addition, He creates and upholds the law. While He never broke any
of the laws, He decides to turn Himself in for the things on your wanted
poster. He dies for those things.
This portion of Scripture talks about how we are united with Christ. We are
united with Christ in His death through what? Read Romans 6:4a.
For what purpose? Read Romans 6:4b.

Reinforcing What Has Been Learned

1. Read Romans 6:6-8. Discuss this
statement. Now, instead of being an outlaw, we have been made a deputy.

2. WANTED:ALIVE
The wanted poster has changed in town. It now reads "WANTED:ALIVE."
Read Romans 6:9-10. Sketch your face in the wanted poster.

Closing

Everyone in the group should participate in a chain prayer,
starting with the leader.

Originally published in Discovery Bible Studies 8, studies on
the Epistle readings for lectionary series A, in 1995.